The Cervix

Question 1

The cervix is the

Answer 1

inferior narrow portion of the uterus that projects into the vagina.

Question 2

How is the cervix anatomically different from the rest of the genital tract

Answer 2

It is lacking a myometrial layer present in the remainder of the uterus and lined with a mucus secreting epithelium.

Question 3

The thick mucoid secretions of the cervix form

Answer 3

a barrier that inhibits the potential entrance of vaginal bacteria into the uterus.

Question 4

The cervical mucus varies in consistency and viscosity during the menstrual cycle under the influence

Answer 4

of the ovarian steroid hormones estrogen (E) and progesterone (P).

Question 5

At the end of the follicular phase under the influence of E

Answer 5

The cervical fluid is thin and watery allowing sperm into the uterus at the time of ovulation

Question 6

The cervical mucus thickens even further in the presence of high P concentrations associated with pregnancy and forms a cervical plug

Answer 6

that completely restricts the movement of bacteria from the vagina and thus protects the fetus from potential infection.

Question 7

The cervix is also highly innervated with direct nervous pathways to the

Answer 7

posterior pituitary.

Question 8

Mechanical stimulation of the cervix is a

Answer 8

potent stimulator of oxytocin secretion by the posterior pituitary.

Question 9

During the remainder of the menstrual cycle, under the influence of the luteal p,

Answer 9

The mucus thickens and inhibits the entrance of any materials from the vagina

Question 10

During late pregnancy, pressure on the cervix by the fetus

Answer 10

stimulates oxytocin secretion

Question 11

Oxytocin is one of the major initiators of

Answer 11

parturition